Virtually every team you can think of is on tap, but it seems that the create-a-player mode, named Be A Pro, is the hit mode of this title. You can choose an existing player or create one. The goal is to improve your player over five seasons.

The focus of the game changes somewhat dramatically in this mode, as you're no longer responsible for the entire team. You are only responsible for your player. The camera actually reinforces the concept of this mode by focusing more on your player. You are required to play more independently but still work within the team framework. A certain amount of skill points are available at the outset of the mode allowing you to choose the assets that you're most comfortable with. More points and skills will be acquired through experience and good play. Your reputation will grow over the seasons, and hopefully you'll become a sports hero.

Graphically, the game is incredible. The players have faces, and they are recognizable. The improved framerate makes some of the animations appear motion-captured. Details in the arena are unbelievable, even the crowds come alive. It's easier than ever to keep your eye on the ball, since it follows a logical path and is not interrupted by framerate issues. You can not only see where the ball is going, but you can anticipate where it should be going.

The announcing is not perfect. He'll occasionally say something irrelevant, but, for the most part, he's on the ball. You'll hear talk on the field, the cheering of the crowd, and a ton of rocking tunes. There are more than 40 tracks in all. An online mode lets you play with three other enthusiasts. I did notice some lag and some framerate issues, though nothing too severe. The A.I. is so good in the single-player mode that you may not be able to tell the difference.

FIFA Soccer 09 is a must-have for sports fans. The simplified touch screen control system ensures that everyone will be up and running in no time with plenty of moves at their fingertips. Don't pass on this one.

Play ValueOne of the best sports games for the DS. Gameplay is relatively deep and very engaging.

4.6

Overall Rating -
Must BuyNot an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.

Game Features:

60 Frames Per Second: Double the frame rate and over 100 new animations deliver more responsive, intelligent, and realistic physical action. Players move more fluidly around the pitch, deliver beautifully placed passes, and snap off precision shots.

Be A Pro: Pick a professional player or create a player and test your ability. Master positioning, improve your attributes, and develop into an elite player. Cooperate with up to three friends fixed to their player on the same team or go head-to-head as rivals with a single cart and local multiplayer.

Real-Time Feedback: Track your performance in every match in real-time with in-game feedback and a final rating. Earn skill points to develop your player into a national legend.

Penalty Shoot-Out Mode: Experience the elation and agony of a penalty shoot-out as if you were on the pitch. New shot animations add a variety of new shots to your arsenal to strike the ball past the goalie. Master your nerves to score the goal that wins your team glory.

New Slide Tackles: Defenders now have the ability to execute slide tackles to interrupt passes or block shots in addition to winning challenges.

Contextual Shooting Control: Deliver precise, skillful shots around the box or use your power to blast away from long range.